By Sheila Nursimhulu

Nurse Nuru Clark has been awarded the British Journal of Nursing 2023 Award for diabetes nursing.

Nurse Clark has been recognised for her work supporting women with diabetes from preconception, through their pregnancy and after they’ve had their baby. In her role, she supports all aspects of her patient’s health and well-being by tailoring the management of their diabetes to each individual’s needs, including addressing fertility issues and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

Nuru Clark. Image from www.bartshealth.nhs.uk

The incidence of type 2 diabetes is among the highest in the country in Newham, but it is also one of the most deprived and most diverse communi- ties in the country.

According to Bart’s Health website, only 28 percent of babies born to women with diabetes under Nurse Clark’s care were admitted to the neo- natal intensive care unit, compared to 45 percent nationally.

Her manager Anne Claydon, a diabetes nurse consultant who was awarded a BEM in the 2021 New Year Honours, described Nurse Clark as “a lynchpin between midwifery, obstetrics, perinatal mental health and primary care teams who has transformed the service beyond recognition”. Nurse Claydon added: “She cares deeply about the women she supports, especially those who are marginalised or vulnerable, or who have experienced pregnancy loss or complications.”

Speaking about her achievement, Nurse Clark thanked her manager Nurse Claydon, other colleagues and patients. She said: “ I have never in my entire career worked with a team who make me feel so valuable. Working with all of these people has allowed me to be who I am and where I am today and I’m very grateful to them all, and for this award. Thank you.”

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